Sport

McDonald: ‘No side will do the double over us again’

REDDITCH United are determined to prevent any of their Southern League Premier rivals completing the double of them this season, according to manager Liam McDonald.

The Reds entertain play-off chasing Poole Town at home on Saturday (3pm) aiming to avenge December’s 2-1 defeat.

So far this season, United have been only lost twice in the league to Stourbridge and Banbury as they look to secure a top half finish.

Saturday’s clash has been given an extra edge after Poole were deducted three points in their win over Redditch, after fielding the suspended Sam Clarke.

Clarke had conceded the penalty which Sam Young converted.

McDonald believes that while it was right to punish Poole’s error, it did not help United’s plight on the day.

“I would like to think no other sides will do the league double over us,” said McDonald.

“We’ve come a long way over the last few months and we’re determined to build.

“We’ve got Poole coming up and we lost to a last minute goal [in December].

“We didn’t know at the time they had fielded an ineligible player.

“They’ve been punished but nothing is done for the opposing side and perhaps that needs to be looked at.

“I think there might have to be a change in the rules. He may have conceded a penalty against us, but him playing gave Poole an advantage.”

Redditch saw Saturday’s trip to AFC Totton called off because of the torrential rain which continues to batter the country.

That was their second match in a row postponed because of the poor weather.

Tuesday night's Worcestershire Senior Cup semi-final at home to Conference North Worcester City was called off as the playing surface at the Valley Stadium struggled to cope with the wet weather.

McDonald added: “We’d won four games out of five and were looking to extend that run but the rain has frustrated us.

“The time off has allowed me to look at some players and make some plans for next season.”

United are currently 17th in the table, but in no danger of being sucked into a relegation battle. Instead, McDonald is targetting a strong finish to the season.

After Poole, United are set to travel to bottom side Bashley on Tuesday (7.45pm) before visiting third-placed St Albans on February 22. They then complete their February fixtures at mid-table Corby on Wednesday, February 26.

Redditch United have been drawn at home against St Neots in the semi-final of the Red Insure Cup on Monday, February 24 (7.45pm ko).